Keaīwa Heiau

State Recreation Area - Hawaiʻi

Keaʻiwa Heiau State Recreation Area is the ruins of a temple (Heiau in the Hawaiian language) at the summit of a hill and neighborhood called ʻAiea Heights on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. The recreation area includes camping facilities and a 4.8-mile (7.7 km) trail. It also offers clear views of Pearl Harbor. Erected sometime in the 16th century, the 160 feet (49 m) stone temple and abundant medicinal herbs in the area were used by kahunas as a type of ancient herbal clinic. The kahunas would also train haumanas (students) in the practice of praying, fasting, and medicinal healing using the neighboring plants. The reputed healing powers of the surrounding plants still draws visitors who leave temple offerings, hoping to experience medicinal benefits.

location

maps

US Topo 7.5-minute map of Waipahu Quadrangle in Honolulu County, Hawaii. Published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).US Topo 7.5-minute - HI Oahu - Waipahu 2017

US Topo 7.5-minute map of Waipahu Quadrangle in Honolulu County, Hawaii. Published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

US Topo 7.5-minute map of Kaneohe Quadrangle in Honolulu County, Hawaii. Published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).US Topo 7.5-minute - HI Oahu - Kaneohe 2017

US Topo 7.5-minute map of Kaneohe Quadrangle in Honolulu County, Hawaii. Published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Driving Map of Oʻahu (Oahu) in Hawaii. Published by the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau.O‘ahu - Driving Map

Driving Map of Oʻahu (Oahu) in Hawaii. Published by the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau.

Vintage map of Hawaiian Islands - Oahu 1951. Published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).Oʻahu - Vintage USGS Map - Oahu 1951

Vintage map of Hawaiian Islands - Oahu 1951. Published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

brochures

A Visitor's Guide to Hawaiʻi State Park Resources and Recreational Opportunities. Published by Hawaii State Parks.Hawaiʻi State Parks - Visitor's Guide

A Visitor's Guide to Hawaiʻi State Park Resources and Recreational Opportunities. Published by Hawaii State Parks.

Brochure about Hiking Safely in Hawaiʻi. Published by Hawaii State Parks.Hawaiʻi State Parks - Hiking Safely

Brochure about Hiking Safely in Hawaiʻi. Published by Hawaii State Parks.

Keaīwa Heiau SRA https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/keaiwa-heiau-state-recreation-area/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kea%CA%BBiwa_Heiau_State_Recreation_Area Keaʻiwa Heiau State Recreation Area is the ruins of a temple (Heiau in the Hawaiian language) at the summit of a hill and neighborhood called ʻAiea Heights on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. The recreation area includes camping facilities and a 4.8-mile (7.7 km) trail. It also offers clear views of Pearl Harbor. Erected sometime in the 16th century, the 160 feet (49 m) stone temple and abundant medicinal herbs in the area were used by kahunas as a type of ancient herbal clinic. The kahunas would also train haumanas (students) in the practice of praying, fasting, and medicinal healing using the neighboring plants. The reputed healing powers of the surrounding plants still draws visitors who leave temple offerings, hoping to experience medicinal benefits.
PARK SETTING Keaïwa Heiau State Recreation Area is a 384-acre park located approximately 12 miles from Waikïkï. Follow H-1 to Moanalua Highway (Hwy. 78). Take the ‘Aiea cutoff to the third traffic light, make a right turn at ‘Aiea Heights Drive and follow it about 3 miles up to the end of the road. Keaïwa Heiau is located at the park entry. Continue along the paved park road to the campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailhead for the ‘Aiea Loop Trail. The groves of Norfolk pines and eucalyptus trees create a forest recreation environment on the hills above the town of ‘Aiea and Pearl Harbor. A resident caretaker near the front gate should be contacted in the event of emergencies. CAMPING & PICNICKING There are 4 campsites available for tent camping from Friday through Wednesday. Camping is by permit only. Camping permits may be obtained from the State Parks office in Honolulu (587-0300) or online at www.hawaiistateparks.org. There is a fee per campsite per night. Please check the State Parks website for rates and availability. Several picnic areas with tables are found along the paved roadway in the park. Some include pavilions with barbeque grills and restrooms nearby. KEAIWA HEIAU Keaïwa Heiau is a medicinal or healing heiau known as a heiau ho‘ola. At this site, the kahuna (priest, expert) specializing in healing would diagnose and treat various illnesses and injuries. The kahuna would also train haumana (students) in the practice of la‘au lapa‘au, medicinal healing using plants, fasting, and prayers. Many of the plants and herbs were collected from the neighboring forest while others were planted around the heiau. The name Keaïwa has been translated as mysterious or incomprehensible. Perhaps, this name refers to the fact that one could not explain the powers of the kahuna and the herbs used in healing. It is unknown when this heiau was built but one source suggests that it was constructed in the 16th Century by Kakuhihewa, an ali‘i (chief) of O‘ahu, and his kahuna Keaïwa. The 4-foot high stacked rock wall encloses the sacred area that measures 100 by 160 feet. Within the enclosure was a hälau (large thatched structure) built for the master kahuna to store the medicinal implements and train the students. Other features might include hale (small thatched structure) and a puholoholo (steam bath). KEAIWA HEIAU STATE RECREATION AREA PRESERVE HAWAI‘I’S PAST FOR THE FUTURE PARK HOURS HIKING The ‘Aiea Loop Trail is 4.8-mile trail that begins and ends in the park. This trail runs along the ridge on the west side of Hälawa Valley and offers views from Pearl Harbor (Pu‘uloa) and the Wai‘anae Range to Honolulu and Diamond Head (Lë‘ahi). Much of this area was replanted by foresters in the late 1920s. The lemon eucalyptus trees give the air a light lemony fragrance. Stands of Norfolk Island pine trees mark the lower end of the trail. Look for the native koa and ‘öhi‘a trees as you reach Pu‘u Uau, the high point about midway along the length of the trail. You might also see remnants of a B-24 bomber that crashed in 1944. This hike is not strenuous but involves some gradual uphill climbs with a steep switchback and stream crossing at the end of the trail. The trail may be muddy with sections of exposed tree roots. Give yourself about 2.5 to 3 hours for the hike and enjoy the plants and the sound of birds around you. Bring water and wear good walking shoes. Be prepared for light passing rain showers. Stay on the designated trail and avoid side trails and short-cuts. The kahuna and haumana lived and worked under strict kapu (restrictions). Women were not allowed in the heiau but could receive training outside the heiau. An apprentice learned the art of diagnosis by practicing on pebbles which a kahuna laid out on a mat in the form of the human body. Pupils learned in this way how to feel out with their fingers the symptoms of the various illnesses. It might take 15 years for a student to become fully trained in the art of healing. The heiau was badly damaged during World War II when soldiers camping nearby took many stones from the heiau to build a road. The heiau was “rededicated” in 1951 and an effort was made to re-establish the historical setting with plantings of medicinal plants. As you visit the heiau, please show respect and do not move, remove or wrap the rocks. We ask that you not leave coins, incense, candles or other such items as they are not traditional offerings and may cause long-term damage to the site. April 1 to Labor Day: 7:00am to 7:45pm After Labor Day to March 31: 7:00am to 6:45pm For further information or permits contact: Department of Land & Natural Resources Division of State Parks 1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 310 Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813 Phone: (808) 587-0300 (Drawing by Joseph Feher, in Ka Po‘e Kahiko by S.M. Kamakau) Visit our website at: http://www.hawaiistateparks.org ‘AIEA, O‘AHU ‘Aiea Loop Trail Map
Hawai‘i State Parks A Visitor's Guide to Park Resources and Recreational Opportunities STATE OF HAWAI‘I Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks Cover photograph of the Makua-Keawaula Section of Ka‘ena Point State Park, O‘ahu with remnants of the former railroad bed around Ka‘ena Point. Railroad at Ka‘ena Point, ca.1935 Hawaiian Historical Society Aloha and Welcome to Hawai‘i State Parks! Hawai‘i is the most remote land mass on earth. Its reputation for unsurpassed natural beauty is reflected in our parks that span mauka to makai (mountains to the sea). Hawai‘i’s state park system is comprised of 50 state parks, scenic waysides, and historic sites encompassing nearly 30,000 acres on the 5 major islands. The park environments range from landscaped grounds with developed facilities to wildland areas with rugged trails and primitive facilities. Outdoor recreation consists of a diversity of coastal and wildland recreational experiences, including picnicking, camping, lodging, ocean recreation, sightseeing, hiking, and pleasure walking. The park program protects, preserves, and interprets excellent examples of Hawai‘i’s natural and cultural history. The exceptional scenic areas are managed for their aesthetic values and developed for their superb views. We invite you to experience Hawai‘i, learn about its unique resources and history, and participate in outdoor recreation by visiting our parks. As you visit, please help us protect Hawai‘i’s fragile and irreplaceable resources for future generations by heeding the rules and posted safety signs. For more information, visit our websites at: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/ http://dlnr.hawaii.gov Use Caution - Be Safe Dangers and hazards exist in our parks and natural areas. Trails may be narrow and muddy with steep drop-offs. Flash floods can occur in streams with little warning. Ocean waves can knock you off your feet and sweep you out to sea. To have a safe park visit, stay on designated trails, heed safety signs, and do not cross streams when water levels rise. Always check weather conditions before going and use official sources of information to plan your visit. Funding for the printing of this brochure provided by the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. -2- TABLE OF CONTENTS General Information 4 Permits 5 Camping & Lodging Permits 5 Permits for Nāpali Coast State Park 6 Group Use Permits 9 Special Use Permits 9 Forest Reserve Trails 9 Hunting and Fishing 9 General Park Rules 10 Safety Tips 10 Water Safety 11 Outdoor Safety 12 Interpretive Program 13 Park Guide 16 Park Descriptions Island of Hawai‘i 14 Island of Kaua‘i 21 Island of Maui 24 Island of Moloka‘i 25 Island of O‘ahu 26 STATE PARKS KEY SP SHP SHS SM SPR SRA SRP SSS SW SWP State Park State Historical Park State Historic Site State Monument State Park Reserve State Recreation Area State Recreation Pier State Scenic Shoreline State Wayside State Wilderness Park FACILITIES ACTIVITIES Cabins/Lodging Beach Activities Campgrounds Snorkeling & Diving Picnic Areas Fishing Boat Ramps Hiking (Trail over 1 Scenic Lookouts Walking (Paved path less than 1 mile long) Food Concession Boat Tours mile in length) (Concessionaire) -3- Revised 5/17 GENERAL INFORMATION State parks are open year-round. Fees are charged for various accommodations, guided tours of ‘Iolani Palace, and riverboat cruises on the Wailua River. Entry and parking fees are charged at some parks. Refer to the attached fee schedule, check the website, or call the telephone numbers provided for more information about fees, hours, and special uses. For permits and information, contact the district offices and park concessionaires (*) listed below. FEES, PERMIT REQUIREMENTS, AND OFFICE HOURS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. HAWAI‘I DISTRICT O‘AHU DISTRICT KAUA‘I DISTRICT MAUI DISTRICT *THE LODGE AT KŌKE‘E *MĀLAEKAHANA (KAHUKU SECTION) 1151 Punchbowl Street,#310 Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 587-0300 Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 3:30pm 75 Aupuni Street, #204 Hilo, HI 96720-4245 (808) 961-9540 Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 3:30pm 54 S. High Street, #101 Wailuku, HI 96793 (808) 984-8109 Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 3:30pm 3060 Eiwa Street, #306 Līhu‘e, HI 96766-1875 (808) 274-3444 Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 3:30pm P.O. Box 367 Waimea, HI 96796-0367 (808) 335-6061 www.thelodgeatkokee.net Contact: info@thelodgeatkokee.net Hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm NOTE: Offices are closed on weekends and State holidays. Please check website for current operator contact information. *HE‘EIA STATE PARK Kama‘aina Kids (808) 235-6509 (fax: 235-6519) information@heeiastatepark.org www.heeiastatepark.org REFUNDS & CHANGES NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN IF REQUESTED LESS THAN 15 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF CHECK-IN DATE. Refunds for credit card purchases will be credited electronically to your account, minus non-refundable administrative fee and
5/8/01 4:24 PM Page 1 During the Hike In An Emergency What is Na Ala Hele? Stay on the Trail Call 911: Ask for Fire/Rescue. Tell them which trail Most accidents happen when hikers leave the established trail and disregard warning signs. Staying on the trail greatly reduces your chances of having a serious fall or getting lost. Hawaiian forests are not like mainland forests—the growth is very dense, and it is easy to become disoriented. Thick overgrowth can mask dangerously steep drop-offs. Thin, sharp lava rock can crack beneath your weight above deep holes or lava tubes. you’re on and what happened. Na Ala Hele (NAH) is the State of Hawai‘i Trail and Access Program. NAH was initially created in response to public concern about the increasing loss of access to trails and the threat to historic trails from development pressures. Currently, NAH is also increasingly engaged in multiple trail use and management issues such as regulating commercial use, conducting trail improvement for resource management, improving user safety, disseminating trailrelated information, and determining the current ownership of historic government trails in efforts to protect these routes for potential use by future generations. Be Visible: Wear or wave a brightly colored item in an open area during the day. At night, use a flashlight or camera flash. Be Noisy: Use a whistle to attract attention. Stay Calm: Objectively assess your situation before mak- Stay Together ing any decision. Stay calm and positive. Hikers separated from their partners are more apt to make a wrong turn or lose the established trail. Keep track of each other, and regroup periodically, especially near junctions or when the trail gets obscure. Monitor everyone’s condition. Dehydration, sunstroke, hypothermia, and fatigue can hit even experienced hikers. chances of getting into further trouble, especially after dark, by staying in one place. This is why it is important to notify someone of your hike location and destination. Avoid Undue Risks Stay Warm: Wind and Climbing waterfalls and following narrow ridgelines or gulches off the trail can place you in danger. Rock climbing is extremely dangerous due to the crumbly and porous nature of the volcanic rock. There have been fatal accidents from crumbling rock...don’t take the chance. rain can drain your body of warmth, and be life-threatening. Get out of the wind and use your rain gear or extra clothes to stay warm. Stay Put: You will be found more quickly and reduce the When might you need emergency assistance? • When an injury or illness prevents walking. • When extremely bad weather hits. • When it’s too dark to see. • When you’re extremely fatigued or dehydrated. • When you’re disoriented or lost. Monitor the Weather Keep an eye on the sky. When hiking into valleys or crossing streams, be mindful of rain conditions along the mountain top or ridges that can suddenly raise the water level in the stream. Use extreme caution if attempting to cross a swollen stream...rushing water is very powerful. It is better to find an alternative route, or wait until the water subsides. Watch the Time Hawai‘i does not have daylight savings time, and night falls quickly in the tropics. Getting a late start increases the possibility of getting caught in the dark. Know your turnaround time and stick to it to allow enough time to return. If you’re caught by darkness, stay put unless you are very familiar with the trail and have a flashlight. Hiking Safely This brochure is subject to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and offers all persons the opportunity to participate in programs or activities regardless of race, color , national origin, age, sex, or disability. Further, it is agreed that no individual will be turned away from or otherwise denied access to or benefit from any program or activity that is directly associated with a program of the recipient on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex (in educational activities), or disability. • When you’re stranded, scared, and unable to move. Na Ala Hele deeply appreciates any public interest and desire to assist in the stewardship of trails in Hawai‘i. Trails require continuous attention to insure the quality of the trail experience, the safety of the trail users, and for the proper management of the natural and cultural resources. Na Ala Hele relies frequently on community volunteers for providing the essential person-power to conduct trail restoration or construction projects. For more information, contact the Na Ala Hele staff on your island: O‘ahu: Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i: Kaua‘i: Big Island: I N H A W A I ‘ I (808) 973-9782 (808) 873-3508 (808) 274-3433 (808) 974-4217 A portion of the content of this brochure was originally created throu

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